Orthodox Bloc Clinches Majority In U.S. World Zionist Congress Elections

In an unprecedented realignment of American Jewish communal politics, Orthodox and right-leaning Zionist slates have secured a sweeping victory in the 2025 elections for the United States delegation to the World Zionist Congress (WZC). For the first time in modern history, this bloc is projected to hold a majority of the 152 U.S. delegate seats, signaling a dramatic shift in the direction of global Zionist influence and funding priorities.

The election drew a record-breaking 230,257 votes—an astounding 86% increase from the 2020 turnout of 123,575. Among the top performers, Am Yisrael Chai, a new slate affiliated with the kiruv-focused Olami movement, stunned the field with 31,765 votes, followed closely by the ultra-Orthodox slate Eretz HaKodesh with 29,159, and the Orthodox Israel Coalition–Mizrachi, backed by institutions such as the Orthodox Union and Yeshiva University, which garnered 26,975. Aish Ha’Am, another Orthodox initiative geared toward young professionals and outreach advocates, received 6,649 votes. The ZOA Coalition, while not religious in affiliation, aligned ideologically with this bloc and added 8,511 votes to the Orthodox-nationalist surge. With smaller slates like SHAS, Israel365 Action, Dorshei Torah V’Tzion, and Achdut Israel contributing an additional 3,500 votes, the Orthodox/traditionalist bloc now commands over 47% of the U.S. Zionist electorate.

"This isn’t just a win in a political sense—it’s a kiddush Hashem," said a spokesperson for Am Yisrael Chai. "Thousands of young men and women from yeshivot, Beit Yaakovs, and committed Jewish homes stood up to be counted in the future of our people." The sense of religious purpose was echoed across the Orthodox spectrum, from Charedi rabbanim to leaders of the Modern Orthodox world, who viewed this moment not merely as a political victory but as a long-awaited correction in the Zionist movement's trajectory.

Rabbi Doron Perez, Executive Chairman of World Mizrachi and head of the Orthodox Israel Coalition, emphasized, “We are proud to stand at the intersection of Torah and Zionism. This victory proves that a Torah worldview and commitment to Medinat Yisrael can inspire and mobilize thousands.” He noted the massive community engagement across schools, shuls, and campus groups that worked in unity to support the campaign. “It’s no longer possible to ignore the voice of Orthodox Jews in Jewish global decision-making. This election is our moment to lead.”

The election's top vote-getter, the VOTE REFORM slate representing the Union for Reform Judaism and its affiliates, garnered 47,887 votes, but its relative influence diminished as the traditionalist bloc gained strength. Together with MERCAZ USA (Conservative Movement) and HATIKVAH (Progressive Slate), liberal streams saw their combined share fall to about 38%, down from an estimated 44% in 2020. While these groups maintain institutional presence, their grassroots engagement lagged behind the robust Orthodox turnout. “It’s clear that the Orthodox community came out in full force,” acknowledged a MERCAZ insider. “Their organizational structure and values-driven campaigning were unmatched.”

Malcolm Hoenlein, Vice Chair of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, commented on the larger trend: “The Orthodox and traditional communities are more organized, more committed, and understand the significance of elections like this. That’s why you see the results we’re seeing.” This sentiment was mirrored by American Zionist Movement Executive Director Herbert Block, who praised the overall voter engagement and noted, “Zionism is alive and well in the United States and stronger than ever.”

This Orthodox triumph is not just symbolic. The WZC holds oversight over critical institutions including the World Zionist Organization, Jewish Agency for Israel, and Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael (JNF), with influence over more than $1 billion in budget allocations annually. These funds impact everything from educational curriculum to land development, aliyah absorption, religious infrastructure, and Jewish identity programs. With control over a majority of the American delegation, Orthodox and nationalist leaders are now in position to significantly influence how these funds are distributed—ensuring greater investment in Torah education, support for yeshivah networks, settlement in Yehudah and Shomron, and outreach efforts that reconnect secular and disconnected Jews to their heritage.

WZO Chair Yaakov Hagoel remarked, “This is a historic moment where American Jewry has voiced a strong stand for proud Zionism and tradition. It’s a reflection of our future—rooted in values, continuity, and faith.” His statement encapsulated the sentiment felt throughout Orthodox communities that have long participated in Israel-building but until recently had limited representation in the formal Zionist establishment.

Some controversy surrounded the election, with nearly 19,000 ballots invalidated over alleged voting irregularities, including duplicate registrations and improper credit card usage. However, according to analysts familiar with the case, the Orthodox bloc’s margin was wide enough to maintain a majority even without the disputed votes. Final certification of the results is expected in the coming weeks, and delegates will take their seats when the full World Zionist Congress convenes in Jerusalem from October 28–30.

The 2025 election marks more than just a shift in policy—it signals a generational realignment. Orthodox Jews are no longer on the sidelines of Zionist leadership; they are driving it. With faith, unity, and vision, they have taken their place at the table to shape the future of Jewish life in Israel and across the Diaspora.

By Shabsie Saphirstein